2009 Lotus Elise vs. 1988 Renault 25
To start off, 2009 Lotus Elise is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Renault 25. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Renault 25 would be higher. At 2,458 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Renault 25 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Lotus Elise (186 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1988 Renault 25. (180 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Lotus Elise should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 25. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Renault 25 weights approximately 565 kg more than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Because 2009 Lotus Elise is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Lotus Elise. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Renault 25, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1988 Renault 25 (280 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Lotus Elise. (133 Nm @ 6800 RPM). This means 1988 Renault 25 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Lotus Elise.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Lotus Elise | 1988 Renault 25 | |
| Make | Lotus | Renault |
| Model | Elise | 25 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 186 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3800 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2730 mm |
